As an experienced land manager with a background in conservation, sustainability, and social science, Charlie advises rural businesses on sustainable management of the natural environment and started her own business with William Hawes in 2022. Charlie has worked with SLC on the role of land management to provide sustainable economic outcomes for Scotland’s rural communities and has achieved a tremendous amount in a relatively short period of time, including negotiating a major NatCap deal and beginning a research alliance with a renowned Scottish academic institution on behalf of one of her clients. She has also secured development funding from NRF to develop the Moray Farm Cluster.
Charlie is skilled at building partnerships and collaboration across the private, public and third-party sectors. She is passionate about the link between social and environmental issues, nature and communities. She is praised by clients for being patient, thorough, methodical and tactful, whilst maintaining a community-minded spirit and is keen to help businesses be prosperous and secure.
As a skilled and tactful communicator, she has been incredibly effective in pulling together ideas, suggestions and aims of the individuals involved in the Moray Farm Cluster in a relatively short space of time. Her quiet determination shines through, as does her work ethic. Despite the potential complexity of the project, Charlie managed to encapsulate the various aims of every landholder in the cluster clearly and in a practical way. This is partly because she’s incredibly capable, knowledgeable and clear-sighted, but also because she is so upbeat and personable.
Charlie facilitates land use change using her skills at building partnerships. She plays an important role with her clients advising them on their responsibilities to communities and stakeholders.
Her approach, demeanour and commitment are second to none. She was instrumental in the NatCap deal and research alliance with a renowned Scottish academic institution. Also, her work with the Woodland and Peatland carbon codes has been groundbreaking. She has earned the respect of all members and owners of the Corrour Board through her forward thinking and exemplary leadership. She is a champion for women in the somewhat male dominated world of land management.
Charlie is extremely passionate about what she does and is committed to delivering on behalf of her clients. Her strong belief in the link between social and environmental issues drives her approach and ensures that solutions are underpinned by robust community engagement. An indication of the values of the partners, Sylvestris offer reduced rates for not-for-profit organisations with missions aligned with their own and offers pro bono support to community landowners looking to deliver ecological restoration through natural capital.